Tributes have been paid to a man who died in Corringham after suffering stab wounds.

Bhekisipho Mudise Dube, who was known locally as Marcus Harper, was found with stab wounds to his chest and leg in Queen Elizabeth Drive on Wednesday, March 21.

He sadly died at the scene. 

His family have now paid tribute to their "respectful and kind" Bhekisipho.

They said: “We as a family are heartbroken at the unexpected death of Bhekisipho. 

“He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, who lifted everyone’s spirits. 

“He was very polite, respectful, kind, loving and softly spoken and his smile lit up a room. 

“Bhekisipho will forever be in our hearts and he will be sadly missed. 

“We would like to thank all the officers, paramedics and everyone who helped Bhekisipho for all their hard work, attention and care shown to him and to us, and for working around the clock. 

“We would also like to thank the community for their support and for assisting the police and the investigation team with information. 

“We ask that we are given privacy to come to terms with this tragic news as we come to terms with our loss.”

Morgan Gilbert, 24, of Lincoln Road, Basildon has been charged with murder.

A 21 year-old man and a 16 year-old boy who were also arrested have been released under investigation.